Surface Actuation Testing Video

Have a look at our prototype in action, set to a relaxing piano ballad.

Mar 23, 2015 23:35 EST

User Interface Complete

A working user interface has been implemented. It has a simulated VTK terrain model, height inputs and measurements, and even a Kinect live display on the side! (And our logo too!) Functionality also includes loading and saving previous terrain models, as well as generating random models.

Mar 22, 2015 00:30 EST

Aesthetics Work

We are wrapping up the mechanical and electrical aspects of this project by starting to put more attention into the aesthetics. Modifications include side walls.

Mar 20, 2015 18:00 EST

Surface Strength Testing (cont.): Success

Since last version's failure, our team has come up with a new method to attach the actuator. The surface is not attached using a loop of wire that goes through the foam. Testing was a success!

Mar 19, 2015 18:00 EST

Surface Strength Testing: Failure

We finished our first attempt at the flexible surface. The surface is attached using hooks taped to the bottom of the foam. However, the attachment hooks came loose during testing. We will need to figure out a new, sturdier way to attach the surface to the actuator.

Mar 19, 2015 17:00 EST

Carpentry Work: Standing Base

The separate standing base, to putt from, has been built. Looks like we are a pretty decent carpenters. Meanwhile, the first flexible surface prototype is complete as well. We are going to test it next week.

Mar 14, 2015 23:00 EST

Kinect Mount and Actuator Controller Rack

With the full frame assembly is done, the team proceeded to build the Kinect Mount and the Actuator Controller Rack.

Mar 10, 2015 13:00 EST

Control Box

The electrical components are fully assembled are now encased in an aluminium project box. It looks professional and is well protected now.

Mar 5, 2015 17:30 EST

Surface Building

The process of building the flexible surface has been started. We decided to use PolarTech Fabric layered with Egg Crate Foam to create the surface continuity that we want.

Mar 4, 2015 12:30 EST

The Other Half

The second half of the frame has arrived and the assembly is in progress.

Feb 22, 2015 21:30 EST

Next Step: Software

Initial tests were a success. One of the next steps will be to build the software for the prototype.

Feb 13, 2015 9:00 EST

Halfway There!

The first half of the frame has been assembled and is ready for testing.

Feb 3, 2015 14:30 EST

CSA Approval: Solved!

With suggestions from Jim Merli and Jan Huissoon, we managed to convert the control box to run on approved DC power supplies! Crisis Averted!

Jan 27, 2015 14:15 EST

CSA Approval: Inspector's Insight

Jim Merli helped us check the control box with a CSA inspector. Apparently the casing is flammable, and a full CSA inspection would cost over $450!

Jan 22, 2015 16:09 EST

CSA Approval: Initial Inspection

The control box that came with the actuators does not comply with CSA standards. We need a workaround for this problem!

Jan 21, 2015 13:15 EST

Website Online!

Our website is up! Updates on the project’s progress will be posted throughout the Winter 2015 term.

Jan 12, 2015 20:03 EST